Obasanjo, Ambode, others pay last tribute as Olakunri goes home

It was a week of tributes as Nigerians from all walks of life came to pay their last respect to Chief (Mrs.) Olutoyin Olusola Olakunri, who died on June 3, 2018 at the age of 80.

Mrs. Olakunri, the first female Chartered Accountant in the sub-Sahara Africa, was buried yesterday after a funeral service at St Paul’s Church, Anglican Communion, Breadfruit in Lagos.

Dignitaries, including former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Senate President, Olubukola Saraki, Governors Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos and his Ogun State counterpart, Ibikunle Amosun and a host of others, were in attendance to grace the occasion.

The funeral service was presided over by the Bishop of Lagos and Dean Emeritus, Most Revd (Dr.) Ephraim Ademowo .

In his sermon, the Vicar, Venerable A.G. Odubena, who read Romans 14: 8 and 9, spoke on the theme: “Where do you go from here?” He said the scripture was a clear indication of the kind of life God expects everyone to live, as our lives are to revolve around the relationship of Christ.

Giving instances on the kind of life Mrs. Olakunri lived, he said she lived “a simple but dedicated Christian life,” adding that she did not allow herself to be pushed around, rather she used her endowment to help others.

Even as she was highly-connected, the vicar said she was humble, a shinning example for all to emulate, as she lived for humanity and for God.

He said: “She was a dedicated leader, a great achiever, quiet and cheerful giver. Her participation in the things of God was overwhelming. She wanted good for everyone and she worked to ensure it became a reality. She will be greatly missed by everyone.”

He said as Mrs. Olakunri had contributed to the development of the country, we must also emulate her.

He advised the children to continue with the legacies left behind by their mother, and prayed that God should comfort them in these trying times.

At the Christian wake on Thursday evening, Senate President, Olubukola Saraki described her as a successful mother and leader, who led other women to the top.

He said she was a strong woman, who wanted success in all she did.

Also, Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, recalled how she picked interest in ensuring he passed his ICAN examinations when he taught he couldn’t perform well.

He said she left indelible marks in the many places she headed and performed brilliantly well even in the public sector.

“Mama lived a good life. She was a woman that cared and took people’s problems as hers. She was an Ogun standard icon, whom the state was proud of,” Amosun said.

The choristers were not exempted as they sang sonorous hymns in awe to the late Olakunri’s contribution to the growth of the choir.